Lucknow: Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has arrested Jeetlal Patel, an absconding former acting principal of a govt residential school, in connection with the alleged embezzlement of Rs 2.66 crore in four Rajkiya Ashram Paddhati schools run by the social welfare department in Prayagraj.Officials said Patel, who was the acting principal of the Ashram Paddhati School at Surwal Shahni, was arrested by an EOW Lucknow team from Shankargarh police station area of Prayagraj on Aug 10.The case pertains to alleged corruption and financial irregularities between the financial years 2018-19 and 2021-22 across four govt-run residential schools in the district. As per the EOW probe, the accused allegedly purchased unnecessary materials without adhering to mandatory quotation and tender procedures, leading to the suspected misappropriation of Rs 2,66,03,807 from govt funds.The FIR was registered at the SSI/IT police station under IPC Sections 409, 420 and 120-B on directions of Uttar Pradesh govt’s home department, after which the EOW took over the investigation.Investigators have found five public servants and 12 private individuals, including Patel, prima facie involved. Officials said Patel had evaded arrest despite repeated attempts, prompting surveillance and searches before his detention. Further legal proceedings are underway.
